By Matthew Panting

Promoter Frank Maloney has insisted Chatham heavyweight Tom Dallas’ new two-year deal with his FTM stable remains in place.

Dallas agreed the new contract last month but then suffered his first professional defeat against David Price in Liverpool last Saturday.

That could have been enough for some promoters to pull the plug but Maloney insisted he has not lost any faith.

"I gave him my word on that deal," said Maloney (pictured). "He will come back. He still has my commitment and support.

"Tom saved the show and brought some credibility to boxing by stepping in.

"It’s not the end of his career and I’ve got a lot of respect for him."

Dallas was given a guarantee before he took the Price fight at just four days’ notice that Maloney would still support him.

That, along with the substantial fight fee, made Dallas’ mind up that he was ready to take on Price despite his lack of preparation.

"Tom has got the heart and determination of a warrior," added Maloney. "He knows the level he has to push to now and the changes he needs to make.

"We’ll sit down when the new season starts and handpick a couple of opponents to let him get his confidence back."